I had an old hand-me-down Sears/Craftsman 9.6v drill when I first moved in on my own. Luckily I was able to find some new replacement batteries at Sears for about $10 each(this was circa 2010). Used that for a few years, and then needed some more tools. I did my research and decided M18 was the line I wanted to get into. Handed the drill down to a younger friend.
I bought an M18 kit from home depot. It was regular non-fuel/brushed. Drill, impact driver, flashlight, hackzall, circ saw and radio with 2 3Ah batteries. Had a battery die at the 2 year mark, but due to living overseas I couldn't send it in for warranty. At the 3.5 year mark(after the warranty period for the battery) I submitted a warranty claim with an explanation of the circumstances. About 2 weeks later I had a new battery on my doorstep.
This really fueled me(no pun intended) to continue with Milwaukee. I ordered the M18 Fuel string trimmer and a 12Ah battery. It's amazing!
Then got a good deal on some M12 fuel stuff, and really like that(honestly use it more than the M18). Also got the M18 fuel 3/8 mid torque impact wrench, and 1/2 fuel impact (1400lbft version). I wouldn't say I have put them through the wringer, but they have done everything I have ever asked, and more. Outside of the single battery issue, I have had no problems at all. They are more expensive, but I feel they are worth it.
Another thing that I felt was important in my decision making was how many tools are available, as well as how long the M18 line has been running. I don't see it going anywhere anytime soon.
I would still like an M12 Fuel 3/8 stubby impact wrench, and some electric ratchets.
I bought an M18 kit from home depot. It was regular non-fuel/brushed. Drill, impact driver, flashlight, hackzall, circ saw and radio with 2 3Ah batteries. Had a battery die at the 2 year mark, but due to living overseas I couldn't send it in for warranty. At the 3.5 year mark(after the warranty period for the battery) I submitted a warranty claim with an explanation of the circumstances. About 2 weeks later I had a new battery on my doorstep.
This really fueled me(no pun intended) to continue with Milwaukee. I ordered the M18 Fuel string trimmer and a 12Ah battery. It's amazing!
Then got a good deal on some M12 fuel stuff, and really like that(honestly use it more than the M18). Also got the M18 fuel 3/8 mid torque impact wrench, and 1/2 fuel impact (1400lbft version). I wouldn't say I have put them through the wringer, but they have done everything I have ever asked, and more. Outside of the single battery issue, I have had no problems at all. They are more expensive, but I feel they are worth it.
Another thing that I felt was important in my decision making was how many tools are available, as well as how long the M18 line has been running. I don't see it going anywhere anytime soon.
I would still like an M12 Fuel 3/8 stubby impact wrench, and some electric ratchets.